Support Services Spotlight - 20/20 Camera Montana (Logan Schneider - Owner)
Introduce yourself and tell us a few cool things about you.
I’m a dad, husband, athlete and espresso addict. Since graduating from MSU in 2005, I’ve been working in the film industry as a cinematographer and a camera assistant before that. My career has been varied, which I enjoy, ranging from movies and television shows to
documentaries and commercials.
Explain your business and what kind of services it provides.
20/20 Camera Montana is a motion picture camera rental house focused on high end cinema, commercial, television and documentary filmmaking.
How long has your company been in business?
We started 20/20 in a Venice Beach garage in 2010.
What made you choose to start a company in this industry?
Starting my career as a student at MSU, I was very distant from many of the resources of larger production centers. As a result, when I wanted to try a tool I would often have to buy or make it. This started me on the track of owning gear. It’s not for everyone, but I enjoy the mix of art, technology and business. When I moved to a larger market I continued to buy equipment until Simon and I combined our gear to start 20/20 Camera.
What inspired you to set up shop in Montana?
I graduated from MSU’s School of Film and Photography in 2005 and began working professionally as a camera assistant before I graduated. Even though I primarily work in LA, I try to be involved in film production within the state whenever possible. Eventually, my wife and I moved our family to Bozeman and now I commute to LA for work. Watching the growth in film and tv production and establishment of a tax incentive to make the state competitive made it clear to me that having a full-service motion picture camera rental house in the state would provide an invaluable service to the film industry in Montana. I like that we can provide a service that I wish had been available when I was starting.
What makes your company unique?
The owners of 20/20 are active filmmakers. I am a working Director of Photography and I spent many years as a camera assistant. Simon Thirlaway was a gaffer before he became a cinematographer. Others that work with us have similar backgrounds. Our approach is not theoretical or naïve. Rather, it is based on the realities and idealism that comes from working on set and loving it. This effects every decision we make. Our employees are the same, having deep backgrounds in larger rental houses before choosing a more intimate setting.
What do you like best about working in Montana?
Natural beauty and great people. I’ve seen many stunning sunrises all around the state. Secondly, Montana has an unbelievably talented resource pool to draw from. We have an abundance of experienced professionals with amazing credits to their name. I know a lot of these people and have worked with them for years. I consider many people I work with on Montana sets to be my dear friends.
What is your favorite movie or TV show filmed in Montana?
A River Runs Through It is the film that all Montana films are compared to. It also comes from a core Montana text that is dear to many around the state.
What practical advice would you give others in the industry in Montana.
The film industry is at its core a traditional craft based apprentice system. Respect, tenacity, empathy and attentiveness are the primary traits that are needed. Look for problems that need fixing and fix them. Show up early. Be patient. It’s a long road.
What’s the best way to get ahold of you?
The best way to reach us is to send an email to info@2020camera.com, call us at (310) 745-4044, or check us out on Instagram @2020camera_rental.